Unexpected Elements Why are we sad when television series end?
Dec 19, 2025
In this engaging discussion, visual ecologist Daniel Hanley from George Mason University shares fascinating insights into how animals perceive the world. He explains why birds can see ultraviolet light while mammals cannot have green pigmentation. The conversation touches on bittersweet feelings tied to the end of beloved series like Neighbours and how screen time may contribute to vision issues. Listeners also learn about the innovative camera Hanley created to visualize animal perception, bringing the invisible world into focus.
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Parasocial Bonds Can Cause Real Grief
- People form parasocial relationships with TV characters that can produce grief similar to losing a close relation.
- Stronger fan identity and emotional bonds predict stronger grief when a long-running show ends.
Communities Amplify Show Loss
- TV series create communities that amplify attachment and communal loss when shows end.
- Long-running soaps like Neighbours intensify that effect over decades of shared viewing.
Reduce Screen Time And Go Outside
- Limit daily screen time on digital devices to under one hour to reduce myopia risk, researchers suggest.
- Complement screen reduction by spending more time outdoors to protect vision.